Market Niche:
Premium large-displacement touring and sport-touring motorcycle segment
Key Competitors:
Honda CB750, Kawasaki Z1, Moto Guzzi V7 series, Ducati 750 GT
Defining Characteristics:
Shaft drive, boxer twin engine, robust build quality, touring comfort, reliable performance
Target Audience:
Touring riders, sport-touring enthusiasts, enthusiasts seeking reliable and capable classic motorcycles
Engine Systems:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head, piston, crankshaft, camshaft, valve train, lubrication, cooling (air-cooled), ignition system, fuel system (carburetors)
Drivetrain Systems:
Clutch, transmission (gearbox), driveshaft, final drive (bevel gear)
Chassis Systems:
Frame, suspension (front forks, rear shocks), steering, brakes (front and rear), wheels, tires
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (alternator, regulator), lighting, ignition, instrumentation
Bodywork And Fittings:
Fuel tank, seat, fenders, exhaust system, controls, body panels
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine checks, lubrication, filter replacement, spark plug service, brake adjustments, carburetor synchronization, valve clearance adjustment
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension repair, brake caliper service, electrical component replacement
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnosis of common problems, fault finding charts, diagnostic procedures
Special Tools And Jigs:
Identification and usage of BMW-specific tools for repair and maintenance
Depth Of Coverage:
Detailed step-by-step instructions, torque specifications, clearances, technical data, diagrams, and exploded views
Digital Format:
PDF (searchable text often present in higher quality scans)
Print Quality Description:
Clear text and legible diagrams (dependent on original source and scan quality)
Binding Type:
Spiral-bound or Perfect-bound (for printed versions)
Paper Type:
Matte or semi-gloss paper (for printed versions)
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, four-stroke, horizontally opposed twin-cylinder (boxer)
Displacement:
897 cc (54.7 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
90 mm x 70.6 mm (3.54 in x 2.78 in)
Horsepower:
67 hp (50 kW) @ 6,500 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
77 Nm (57 lb-ft) @ 5,000 rpm (approx.)
Carburetors:
2 x Bing 32/40mm constant-velocity carburetors
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Oil Capacity:
2.5 Liters (2.6 US qt)
Oil Type:
SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 motorcycle specific
Safety Rating Context:
Motorcycles of this era were not subject to standardized crash test ratings like modern cars.
Braking System:
Front: Dual 260mm discs with dual-piston calipers; Rear: 260mm drum brake
Lighting System:
Halogen headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals
Frame Construction:
Steel duplex cradle frame
Wheel Type:
Wire-spoked wheels, tubed tires
Infotainment Features:
N/A (Classic motorcycle, no modern infotainment systems)
Driver Assistance Systems:
N/A (Classic motorcycle, no electronic rider aids)
Connectivity Options:
N/A (Classic motorcycle, no electronic connectivity)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 km (2,000-3,000 miles) or annually
Valve Adjustment Interval:
Every 5,000-10,000 km (3,000-6,000 miles)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 5,000-10,000 km (3,000-6,000 miles)
Carburetor Sync Interval:
Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or as needed
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check caliper manufacturer specifications)
Final Drive Oil Viscosity:
SAE 90 Gear Oil (API GL-4)
Common Wear Items:
Fork seals, swingarm pivot bearings, steering head bearings, clutch wear, output shaft seal leaks
Electrical Quirks:
Aging wiring harnesses, regulator/rectifier failures, aging battery terminals
Engine Considerations:
Oil leaks from the front of the engine (timing chain cover), clutch plate wear, potential for pushrod tube seal leaks
Oil Filter Part Number:
BMW Part No. 11 42 1 266 485 (or equivalent aftermarket)
Bmw Motorcycle History:
BMW has a long and storied history in motorcycle manufacturing, known for engineering excellence, durability, and innovation, particularly in boxer engine technology.
R90 Series Development:
The R90/6 was an evolution of BMW's successful large-displacement boxer twins, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and reliability for both commuting and touring.
Production Years:
1973-1976
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany (Spandau plant)
Production Numbers:
Approximately 15,549 units produced for the R90/6 model.